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Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Can you predict the day you'll die? Study says you are more likely to die on your birthday
Jun 21, 2025 02:36 PM IST As we grow older, birthdays can stir mixed emotions; should we celebrate another year of life, growth, and wisdom, or quietly reflect on the passage of time and our own mortality? This emotional tug-of-war is intensified by a phenomenon known as the birthday effect, a curious pattern suggesting that people are statistically more likely to die on or around their birthdays. Are you more likely to die on your birthday, compared to other days?(Unsplash) According to a 2012 study published on ScienceDirect, a 13.8 percent rise was observed in people above the age of 60 who died on their actual birthdays, compared to other days. Not just that – a 2015 study published on ScienceDirect noticed a 6.7 percent higher risk of dying on the birthday, than on other days. Know all about the birthday effect here.(Unsplash) But why does this peculiar phenomenon occur? A July 2024 article on BBC Science Focus shared a few theories that might answer this occurrence: Often birthdays are celebrated with pomp, alcohol and other substances, that can lead to questionable choices, drunk driving, increasing the risk of accidents and death. For people suffering with terminal illnesses, birthdays serve as significant milestones to live for. They live to see one more birthday and one more candle added to the birthday cake, before finally letting go. Also read | 'Lonely' elderly are actually at 18% lower risk of death! New study challenges old assumptions Birthdays can trigger birthday blues in people. This can stem from unmet expectations, loneliness, reflections on reality of aging and stress. This can lead to sadness and depression. According to a 2016 study published on ScienceDirect, these emotions can trigger the risk of suicide. The study observed a 50% higher risk of suicide in people on their birthdays, compared to other days. One theory suggests that inaccuracies in death records may contribute to the birthday effect, with some death dates mistakenly recorded as the individual's birth date, leading to misleading statistics. While the birthday effect still requires more research for conclusive understanding, it serves as a reminder to prioritise safety, avoid excessive alcohol, and focus on celebrating the life you've lived and the moments that truly matter. Also read | Is your daily dollop of butter increasing death risk? Study reveals shocking results Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition. Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!. Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.
Sinar Daily
07-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Sinar Daily
Minimalism key to mental well-being
Why less stuff means more happiness in a hectic world 07 Jun 2025 01:03pm Minimalism should be practiced in a moderate and balanced manner as discarding items excessively without considering their value can lead to a loss of identity, especially if those items represent relationships or important parts of one's life. - Photo illustrated by Sinar Daily KUALA LUMPUR - In today's fast-paced and high-pressure world, the minimalist lifestyle is gaining popularity as an effective way to enhance mental well-being. One of the key aspects of this lifestyle is the intentional reduction of personal possessions. But why does owning less have such a profound impact on our ability to find calm and maintain focus? Reducing personal belongings is not merely about discarding unnecessary things but about wisely choosing what holds value and meaning in one's life. - Photo illustrated by Sinar Daily According to Dr Nurul Ain Mohamad Kamal, a consultant psychiatrist in general and psychogeriatric psychiatry at Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, reducing personal belongings is not merely about discarding unnecessary things but about wisely choosing what holds value and meaning in one's life. "When the number of possessions decreases, our physical space becomes more organised and free from clutter, thereby reducing visual distractions that can lead to stress and anxiety," she told Bernama. She said owning things in moderate quantities also helps reduce mental burden as one no longer needs to worry about maintenance, storage or making unnecessary purchases. Dr Nurul Ain said a study published in 'ScienceDirect' in 2021 showed that the minimalist lifestyle has a positive impact on emotional well-being. "It helps enhance positive emotions such as a sense of contentment and calm (flourishing) and reduces symptoms of depression. "In another study by the 'International Journal of Applied Positive Psychology' (2020), individuals who practiced minimalism also experienced benefits such as autonomy, self-efficacy, heightened awareness and more stable emotions," she said. Pointing to KonMari, a popular decluttering method introduced by Japanese consultant Marie Kondo to "keep only items that spark joy', Dr Nurul Ain said it is a form of self-reflection that helps people identify the real values in their lives and rebuild healthy relationships with their surroundings and emotions. "When we keep something solely out of guilt or fear of letting it go, it may stem from unresolved unconscious emotions. On the other hand, when an item is truly used and serves a real function, then its presence is justified," she explained. However, she cautioned that minimalism should be practiced in a moderate and balanced manner as discarding items excessively without considering their value can lead to a loss of identity, especially if those items represent relationships or important parts of one's life. Hospital Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah, Universiti Putra Malaysia, psychology officer Norezzati Md Hanafiah also agreed that the minimalist lifestyle not only has a positive effect on one's mental health but also contributes to physical and social well-being. According to her, a cluttered environment or one filled with too many things can negatively impact a person's emotions and productivity. It can trigger stress and anxiety due to being overwhelmed by visual clutter, along with the feeling that there are unfinished tasks. "Individuals are also more likely to feel mentally exhausted, have difficulty focusing and experience reduced productivity because a lot of time and energy is spent managing disorganised items," she said. She explained that minimalism can also improve social relationships and overall lifestyle by helping individuals appreciate the belongings they own, focusing on quality rather than quantity. "This lifestyle also encourages more mindful spending and helps avoid impulsive purchases, making one more prudent. It is particularly suitable for urban living today, where residential spaces are increasingly limited and require smart and efficient management of belongings," she added. - BERNAMA More Like This
The Sun
02-06-2025
- Health
- The Sun
‘Omg – how sad' people say as mum-of-two sparks horror by sharing snap of her toddler ‘vaping'
A MOTHER-OF-TWO has sparked horror after sharing a photo of her toddler ''vaping''. Alysha Elsom left social media users horrified after posting a series of snaps of her adorable tots - one of which also included a photo of a little girl holding what, at first glance, seemed to be a vape. 3 The snap, which has since taken the internet by storm for all the wrong seasons, sees one of Alysha's daughters dressed up in a cute pink outfit, as well as an adorable bow on her head. However, what really caught the attention of more than 500k fellow TikTokers was the plastic blue item the tot was holding. Due to the shape and the vibrant colour of the object thousands of gobsmacked people quickly - and wrongly - assumed that the girl was puffing on a vape. The experts at NHS warn that vaping is not for children and young people. Their developing lungs and brains mean they are more sensitive to its effects. Although nicotine vaping is less harmful than smoking, it is not risk-free. That's why there's a minimum age of sale for vaping products in the UK. It is illegal to sell nicotine vaping products to anyone under 18 or for adults to buy them on behalf of under-18s. Additionally, exposure of children and adolescents to nicotine in vaping solutions can lead to long-term negative impacts on brain development, as well as addiction, as reported by Science Direct. They added that many teenagers who vape experience poor concentration, anxiety, mood disorders and sleep disturbance. A paper from NEJM in 2022 reported a case series where chronic vaping resulted in small airway fibrosis of the airways - a condition where the lungs become scarred, making it difficult to breathe. Police raid largest spice vapes operation after kids were left hospitalised 'Did I see that correctly?' Posted just two days ago, the clip has already taken the platform by storm, racking up close to an astronomical 560k views, 20k likes, as well as almost 800 shares. Over 500 people flooded to comments in sheer horror, with many totally aghast at what they had just seen. The 4 horrifying things that can happen to your body after vaping VAPES were once hailed as miracle devices to help adults ditch cigarettes. But while the devices don't carry the same risks as tobacco, experts have warned that vaping might not be so harmless after all. Here are five ways vaping could damage young users bodies: 1. It could slow down brain development Vaping nicotine can permanently affect brain development in people under the age of 25, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It said that nicotine consumed during teenage years can harm the parts of the brain that control attention, learning, mood, and impulse control, as well as increase the risk of addiction. 2. It could lead to tooth decay Dr Michael Heffernan, a dentist at The Wessex Dental Specialist Care, said most vapes contain dangerous chemical that can harm your teeth and lead to decay. Puffing on the devices could also lead to mouth dryness, creating an environment in which harmful bacteria can grow. 3. It could damage heart health However, some of the chemicals found in vapes can be damaging to the heart, with the American Heart Association (AHA) stating that vaping is "as harmful to the body's cardiovascular systems as cigarettes". 4. It could cause lung disease Vaping from a young age could leave children with breathing difficulties, with paediatric respiratory consultant Dr Mike McKean saying he'd seen reports of people developing lung disease related to vaping. Researchers from the US also found that young people who vape are more at risk of bronchitis, inflammation of the airways, and shortness of breath. Read more on how vaping can affect your health here. ''Did i see that correctly..?!'' one was baffled. ''no way u guys genuinely thought her baby was holding a vape,'' a second wrote. ''got scared for sec,'' someone else chimed in, as another dubbed it ''so sad''. ''Why is the vape in the baby mouth,'' a fourth commented. ''fully thought it was a lost mary,'' a TikToker said. After the short clip left thousands gobsmacked, mum Alysha explained what really was going on in the photo - revealing that it was actually ''a toy thermometer''. This was also backed up by another mum who hit back at the trolls, writing: ''It's a peppa pig thermometer my wee girl has the same thing.'' 3
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
15 Things Younger Generations Do That Boomers Find Appalling And Disrespectful
The generational gap has never been more obvious, and nowhere does it show up faster than in daily behavior. What younger generations consider normal, casual, or even progressive can leave boomers absolutely floored—and often, deeply offended. It's not always about malice—sometimes it's just about different values, expectations, or definitions of respect. But let's be real: some of these habits feel like a total rebellion against the world boomers grew up in. The things that make younger generations feel empowered or authentic can strike boomers as chaotic, rude, or downright absurd. Here are 15 things younger generations do that leave boomers shaking their heads—and why the generational tension runs so deep. Younger generations often drop the formalities when talking to bosses, teachers, or even elders, using first names and casual language like it's no big deal. Boomers, grew up in a world where authority was respected and feared according to Science Direct, so they find this shocking. It can feel like a blatant disregard for hierarchy and tradition. What Gen Z sees as confidence or authenticity, boomers often interpret as disrespectful or arrogant. The disconnect runs deep because respect was once tied to how you spoke, not just what you said. And that clash makes every conversation feel loaded. Younger generations love to challenge systems—whether it's questioning work hours, gender roles, or even the concept of marriage. Boomers, who were often taught to follow rules without question, see this constant pushback as rebellious and ungrateful. It's like they're tearing down the very structures that kept society functioning. But for Gen Z and millennials, the willingness to question is about creating something better, not disrespecting the past. They're not afraid to ask, 'Why?'—and that alone can feel like a slap in the face to boomers. It's a fundamental difference in how each generation views tradition. For younger generations, glancing at a phone mid-conversation is practically second nature. But for boomers, it feels like a direct insult—like saying, 'You're not important enough to have my full attention.' It comes off as careless, rude, and dismissive. As The Atlantic points out, the constant presence of phones has radically changed social dynamics, often creating an invisible barrier between people. What Gen Z sees as multitasking, boomers see as emotional neglect. It's a subtle habit that can quietly erode connection. Posting everything from relationship drama to mental health struggles on social media is second nature for younger generations. But boomers, raised with a 'keep it private' mindset, find this level of transparency shocking and even embarrassing. They see it as a lack of boundaries—and a total disregard for personal dignity. For younger people, though, sharing online is a form of self-expression and community. It's about normalizing struggles, not hiding them. But for boomers, it feels like airing your dirty laundry for the world to see. Boomers often believe in family loyalty at all costs, even when relatives say or do hurtful things. But younger generations are more willing to call out racism, sexism, or toxic behavior—even within their own families. That level of confrontation feels shocking and disrespectful to boomers. As Forbes highlights, younger people see accountability as love, not betrayal. They believe in addressing harm, even if it means uncomfortable conversations. Boomers, however, often see it as a lack of respect for elders and family traditions. For boomers, a steady 9-to-5 job was the ultimate badge of responsibility. But younger generations are ditching the cubicle for gig work, side hustles, and freelancing—leaving boomers baffled. It feels risky, unstable, and ungrateful for the stability boomers fought so hard for. Younger generations, however, see this as reclaiming freedom and flexibility. They want work to fit into their lives, not the other way around. It's a fundamental shift in values that leaves boomers worried about the future. Taking mental health days, setting boundaries at work, and openly talking about burnout is standard for younger generations. But boomers, raised on the idea that hard work is the ultimate virtue, see this as weakness or an excuse to avoid responsibility. It feels like a slap in the face to the 'pull yourself up by your bootstraps' mentality. As highlighted by Harvard Business Review, mental health is increasingly viewed as essential to productivity, not a distraction from it. Younger people aren't willing to sacrifice well-being for career success. Boomers, however, often see this shift as entitled and soft. For boomers, calling is the default mode of communication. But younger generations hate unexpected phone calls, preferring texts, voice notes, or DMs instead. Ignoring calls feels like a clear message of disinterest or disrespect to boomers. To Gen Z and millennials, though, it's about managing energy and time. They see calls as invasive unless scheduled. Boomers see it as a breakdown of basic social etiquette. Boomers grew up in a world where gender roles were rigid and binary. So when younger generations reject labels, use they/them pronouns, or talk openly about fluid identities, it can feel confusing—and even threatening. It challenges everything boomers were taught to believe. For younger people, it's about authenticity, inclusivity, and freedom. But for boomers, it often feels like a radical shift that's happening too fast. And that cultural whiplash fuels misunderstanding. Boomers see home ownership, car ownership, and even having 'nice things' as signs of success. But younger generations are opting for rentals, rideshares, and minimalism, valuing experiences over possessions. To boomers, this looks like irresponsibility and a lack of ambition. Younger generations, however, see it as freedom from debt and the rat race. They don't want to be tied down by stuff. And that mindset can feel like a rejection of everything boomers worked for. Boomers were raised on the idea that you don't question authority figures—you respect them, period. But younger generations believe in open dialogue, even if it means challenging teachers or calling out a boss's bad behavior. That pushback feels like a lack of respect to boomers. For Gen Z and millennials, it's about equity and fairness. They don't believe respect is automatic—it has to be earned. That shift in mindset often leads to generational clashes. Boomers grew up in a culture where your job defined you—and loyalty to your employer was a moral obligation. Younger generations, though, see work as a means to an end, not their identity. They prioritize balance, and they'll leave a job that doesn't meet their needs. To boomers, this looks like flakiness or a lack of gratitude. But for younger generations, it's about valuing life outside of work. And that difference in priorities is hard to bridge. Younger generations are much more comfortable saying 'no' to social invitations without long explanations or guilt. Boomers, who were taught to accept every invite as a sign of respect, find this shocking and hurtful. It feels dismissive—like the relationship doesn't matter. For Gen Z and millennials, it's about boundaries and protecting their time. They don't feel obligated to say yes just to avoid awkwardness. But for boomers, it feels like a breakdown of social graces. For younger generations, read receipts are a game—leaving them on can signal interest, while leaving them off feels like self-protection. Boomers don't understand the nuance; they see it as a basic courtesy to respond quickly. To them, slow replies feel cold, detached, or downright rude. For younger people, though, digital boundaries are essential. They don't owe instant access, even in a world of constant connectivity. And that boundary often feels like rejection to boomers. Younger generations talk openly about going to therapy, taking antidepressants, or managing mental health diagnoses. Boomers, who were raised to keep personal struggles private, find this public honesty unsettling—sometimes even attention-seeking. It can feel like oversharing or a lack of resilience. For Gen Z and millennials, though, it's about normalizing mental health care and breaking stigma. They see vulnerability as strength, not weakness. Boomers, however, often see it as 'too much information.'
Time of India
01-06-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Musi river water unfit for drinking except at Osman Sagar: Study
Hyderabad: A scientific study published in the June edition of the Cleaner Water journal by ScienceDirect has found that water from the Musi River is unfit for drinking at all locations except at its upstream source, Osman Sagar. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The research, titled 'Spatial and Seasonal Assessment of Water Quality of Musi River, India,' was led by Ajmal Koya Pulikkal of the Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology Mizoram, and co-authored by Mohammad Zakwan from Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Hyderabad. Water samples were collected from four stations — Osman Sagar (upstream), Bapughat and Musarambagh (midstream), and Nagole (downstream) — during the pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon seasons. The study analysed 27 water quality parameters using standard methods and indices such as the Weighted Arithmetic Water Quality Index (WAWQI), Nemerow's Pollution Index, and various irrigation indices. The WAWQI values across the sites showed a sharp deterioration in water quality downstream: 38 at Osman Sagar, 175 at Bapughat, 197 at Musarambagh, and 179 at Nagole. Only Osman Sagar met the Bureau of Indian Standards for potable water. The deterioration became significant at Bapughat, attributed to urban encroachments, waste dumping, and sewage discharge. The study noted a slight improvement in water quality at Nagole, likely due to the Amberpet sewage treatment plant near Musarambagh. Seasonal and irrigation assessment reflect pollution load Seasonal analysis revealed further insights. While water from Osman Sagar remained suitable for both drinking and irrigation in all seasons (S-1 category), the other stations fell into S-3 (unsuitable for irrigation) during the pre and post-monsoon periods, and into S-2 (moderately suitable) during the monsoon, due to dilution effects. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Kelley's index also indicated that only Osman Sagar's water was suitable for irrigation throughout the year. The study flagged declining dissolved oxygen levels and rising biochemical oxygen demand downstream. Hydrochemical facies analysis (a method used to interpret the chemical composition of water) using Piper diagrams further revealed a shift in water composition from upstream to downstream. The authors call for urgent and consistent monitoring, improved wastewater treatment, effective stormwater management, and stronger environmental regulation to reverse the degradation.
